Saturday we woke up early to get a start on the day. We started the day by driving past the Well of Abraham. After this we headed over to Tel Arad. A “Tel” is basically one city that is built upon another. So Tel Arad is an ancient Canaananite city. We read in Numbers 21:1, “And when king Arad the Canaanite, which dwelt in the south, heard tell that Israel came by the way of the spies; then he fought against Israel, and took some of them prisoners.” It was lots of fun to just check out the old ruins and climb all the rocks of an old Biblical Ruin, with the boys. After some time there, we drove to Masada and hiked up to the top. Masada is an amazing amazing amazing Fortress that sits on top of a Plateau in the middle of the Negev Dessert. It was built by Herod, and was used as Israel’s last stand against the Romans. Here many Jewish people defended their palace for 2 years while the Romans built a siege ramp to conquer the city. Well the Romans were successful in building the ramp which is still standing today, but i’m sure were very disappointed when they got to the top to see a Mass Suicide. The Israeli’s chose to commit suicide rather than fall in slavery to the Romans, which would have been a lifetime of torture and treacherous bondage. This was one of my favorite sites, and has such a beautiful view overlooking the Dead Sea. It’s very sad to see the pain that the Children of God have had to go through. They have been in a war since the beginning. A war not fought with physical weapons, but every bit spiritual. It’s very sad history at this place, but really amazing to spend time with my brothers there.
After we hiked down from Masada, we set up camp near by, and stayed the night right outside of Masada in a tent. We had no sleeping bags or pillows, just a nice windy night, and the Lord Blessed us with a great Bon Fire to end the night. It reminds me again of God’s guidance on the Children of Israel, let out of captivity by a Cloud during the day, and a Pillar of Fire by night. Jesus has had His hands on me and my brothers every step of the way.
Hay Nick, what a wonderful experience your having out their. I miss you and look forward in being with you soon. It sure is amazing how our Lord has provided for you and your friends. Its a blessing to know the worst thing that happen to you or one of your brothers was losing a shoe. Oh, how is Sosimo? Is his ankle better? Say hello to him for me. Thank you for all your prayers, my finger is fine and I didn't turn into spiderman. But please continue to pray for my sight to get better. I sould be getting my passport soon, were going to have a great time together. I love you with all my heart and miss you more. May the good Lord be with you always, you are in our prayers each and every day. Dad
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